#United States #Des Moines #school choice #Family Fun

Des Moines School Fair: A Hub for Educational Exploration and Family Engagement

The upcoming Des Moines School Fair is set to be a highlight for families seeking educational options and fun-filled activities. Taking place at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, this annual event offers a unique platform for parents to explore a variety of schooling options available across the state of Iowa.

Event Highlights

Date: January 25, 2025
Location: Paul R. Knapp Animal Learning Center, Iowa State Fairgrounds
Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

The fair, hosted by the Iowa Alliance for Choice in Education alongside the National School Choice Awareness Foundation, aims to inform families about numerous educational avenues. Attendees will gain insights into various options such as traditional public schools, private institutions, charter schools, faith-based education, online programs, homeschooling, and even microschooling.

This year, the fair features over 20 participating schools that will offer engaging presentations, allowing parents to connect directly with school representatives. Families can ask questions, gather essential information, and ultimately make informed decisions regarding their children's education for the next school year.

One of the exciting facets of the fair is the presence of Alpha, the mascot of the Iowa Wolves, a G League basketball team. Alpha will be there to entertain families, adding a playful spirit to the event. In addition to meeting Alpha, visitors can indulge in complimentary food, witness face painting, enjoy balloon artistry, and even engage with superheroes, ensuring a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere for all attendees.

Community Engagement

Trish Wilger, the executive director of the Iowa Alliance for Choice in Education, emphasizes the fair's significance, stating, "This school fair is a wonderful opportunity for families to explore the many educational options available in Iowa and connect with schools in a fun and interactive setting." She reflects a vision for the event to grow each year, facilitating broader access to educational resources for families.

The Des Moines School Fair is part of the National School Choice Week 2025, a nationwide celebration that spans from January 26 to February 1, with over 27,000 events taking place across all 50 states. This week is dedicated to raising awareness about the diversity of school choices available to families.

Attendee Information

Families interested in attending the fair can RSVP for this free event at desmoinesschoolfair.com. Spanish-speaking families can find additional resources and RSVP information at schoolchoiceweek.com/events/2025-des-moines-feria-escolar/.

Conclusion

The Des Moines School Fair is not only an essential event for exploring educational options but also a space for building community connections. It's an opportunity for families to engage with the educational landscape, ensuring a brighter future for their children in a supportive, interactive environment.